Who lives here: Traditionally, Bethesda drew families looking for excellent schools. But with Metro’s arrival and the development of the pedestrian-friendly downtown, it attracts young couples and singles, too.Homefront: Most houses in Bethesda sell for between $700,000 and $1.8 million, according to Coldwell Banker agent Jane Fairweather. Smaller, older homes can still be found for around $600,000, particularly in such West Bethesda neighborhoods as Wyngate, Alta Vista, and Parkwood.Popular neighborhoods: Kenwood is famous for its country club, cherry trees, and grand homes. Brookmont has houses on the Potomac near the DC line. Tulip Hill’s 50-year-old houses sit on big lots. Carderock Springs has contemporaries tucked into heavily wooded yards.What’s new: The downtown area of Bethesda Row is adding a complex of stores, restaurants, and apartments. It’ll open next spring.Local favorites: Caddies on Cordell, which claims to be “Bethesda’s 19th hole,” is a popular after-work bar for young adults. During summer, baseball fans head out to see the Big Train, a team of college players, at the delightfully retro Shirley Povich Field at Cabin John Regional Park.

Biggest draw: In 2006 Bethesda’s public high schools—Whitman, Walter Johnson, and Bethesda–Chevy Chase—posted SAT scores among the six highest in the county. Top private schools such as Landon, Holton-Arms, Georgetown Prep, and Stone Ridge also call Bethesda home.Drawbacks: Residents complain about McMansions and teardowns that don’t fit in the neighborhood. Also, traffic and parking in downtown can be tough at night and on weekends.Well-kept secret: Although it’s hard to buy a home in the Whitman school district for less than $750,000, the Bannockburn neighborhood off River Road has houses starting in the mid $600,000s.

Why it beats McLean: House prices are steep but don’t reach the levels you pay in McLean.